Prep sports profile: Anna Novak

March 25, 2013

On a new team as a junior, Anna Novak has jelled with her squad while helping lead the team in overall points.

High school junior Anna Novak made a big impact on Lockport Township’s Lady Porters basketball team as a new member. Known for her strong work ethic, Novak was one of the team’s top overall scorers and led by example on and off the court.

Krista Peterson, the team’s head coach for 10 years, says, “Anna has a strong desire to get better every day and possesses a positive team attitude. She makes everyone around her better by being one of our most consistent student athletes.”

Name: Anna Novak

Age/year in school: 16/Junior

Sport: Basketball

Position: Guard

How long have you played basketball?

Officially, I started playing on a team in third grade. But I have been playing unstructured basketball ever since I could walk.

What do you love most about basketball?

I love the freedom I feel when I play the game and the constantly varying challenges that every game brings.

What was your biggest challenge this season? How did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge was integrating into a new team as a junior. I overcame it easily, as every player on the team was extremely welcoming and made me feel like I had been playing with them for years.

What was your favorite moment of this season? Why?

The whole season was so amazing that it is difficult to pick a specific moment. But I think the support I received from my team when I advanced to the state three-point competition is indicative of the support I have received from the players and coaches all year.

Do you have any rituals or superstitions when you play?

I do not really have any superstitions, but I do have a strange ritual—I must listen to “Eye of the Tiger” before every game.

Who has inspired you most in your athletic endeavors?

My sisters have always been a huge inspiration for me. They are all very successful and accomplished athletes and have always encouraged me to be the best I can be.

If you didn’t play basketball, what would you be doing?

I would compete in track and field.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

Magic Johnson. I admire the tremendous impact he has had on the game of basketball and the relentless determination he had when he played.

What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside basketball?

I really enjoy drawing and painting. I take art classes in school and plan on double majoring in chemistry and fine arts in college.

Favorite quote or words to live by:

“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” –Vince Lombardi

Profile edited by Lauren Comitor. Local coaches who would like to see an athlete featured in TribLocal should email triblocaltips@tribune.com.